Necessary Skills in the Robotics Program

Academic: A robotics student must be able to understand the logical process including variables, substitution and step-by-step procedures. Students will need to be able to calculate speed in degrees & mm/sec, angles, basic arithmetic, as well as converting from millimeters to inches. Complex algebraic equations are a daily part of the programming aspect of robotics. Students will need to design and logically process the path and speed a robot may take during execution. Problem solving skills and ideas will be challenged during each activity.

The student will be required to write and draw up a plan prior to each activity that will include a basic description of the project as well as a multitude of options in completing the task. This process could be completed through a group or individually. After the activity is completed, the student is responsible for writing up a report using the Robotic Application Task Analysis. This describes the entire process in detail and includes the following items: drawings/sketches, step-by-step directions, setup procedures, details regarding problems / difficulties, alignment details, part details, workspace details and finally, a program listing & layout.

Interpersonal Skills: This program requires the students to work both independently and as a team with each individual in the course. Students should be motivated to complete work by themselves as well as work with a team to complete tasks. In the group projects, students will take turns directing the process and taking orders.

Responsibility: The student must have the maturity to understand that this program will require them to stay focused and use their problem solving skills to complete most activities. They will be required to take safety training and follow safety procedures. Each student must be willing to persevere through tasks that could be repetitious but still follow through with high quality work.

Physical: Students will move in various positions around the robotic lab. They will place fixtures and parts within the safety fence and inside the robotic carts. All work will be done indoors. There will be minimal lifting of parts and equipment. Most parts / fixtures will weigh less than 10 pounds.